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Applications open for new retail incubator

Calling all future boutique owners, cosmetologists and style retailers - you could be part of a new incubator program in Glenville.

The City of Cleveland and Cleveland Citywide Development Corporation (CCDC) are launching Glenville's first retail incubator program, located in Glenville Circle North, the new mixed-use development that will be completed in Summer 2019. The program is part of the Neighborhood Transformation Initiative.

The program was developed to provide space for local entrepreneurs to learn how to run and grow a retail operation. Offering below-market rent and subsidized build-out costs, the program aims to reduce the barrier to entry for entrepreneurs ready to move their businesses into a physical space.

Six small business owners will be selected to participate in the incubator. The selection process will include business pitches, training services and one-on-one coaching opportunities. Candidates will be reviewed by a committee made up of representatives from partner entrepreneur-support organizations—including JumpStart, Urban League of Greater Cleveland, ECDI, and The Real Black Friday—Famicos Foundation, experienced restaurateurs and retail operators, as well as the City and CCDC representatives.

Local retailers, art vendors, food manufacturers, restaurateurs, cosmetologists and other service providers seeking a brick and mortar location are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is November 30, 2018.

"CCDC is pleased and excited to assist in the economic rejuvenation of the Glenville 'Circle North‘ neighborhood. With the assistance of the Mayor‘s Neighborhood Transformation Initiative, we can offer startup and existing businesses a tremendous opportunity to have custom-built space at no cost for build out and reduced rent. This will allow small business to take advantage of the growth of this historic business district and participate in an exciting neighborhood transformation,‖ said Stefan Holmes, Vice Chairperson of CCDC, in a statement.